Leninakan Architecture

While under the Soviet rule in 1924, the name of the city was changed to Leninakan in honor of the deceased Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin. Then in 1926 the city suffered an earthquake, which is when many of its significant buildings were destroyed.

After the earthquake, architect Chisliyev drew up a detailed plan for city center.

The planning and construction of residential houses started in the middle of the 1920s. Three different types of two-story buildings with two rooms were constructed by architect Chislev. These two-story houses with recessed staircases and archlike windows were successfully integrated into Alexandrapol’s historical environment. (Gai 2- 4)

During the architectural development of the 1920-1930s, there were elements of classicism and creative application of architectural traditions. These were partially the influence of the “modern” direction.

A new and relatively distinct phase began in Soviet architecture, which was accompanied with specific style, creativity and construction volume.

The 1970s were the years of Brutalist architecture; a period in architecture that lasted from 1950s to mid 1970s. The term “brutal” does not derive from the word brutal, but originates from the French béton brut, for “raw concrete,” to feature the mainly used material. Following the 1970s, Leonid Brezhnev granted permission to the architects to use western elements.

The Gyumri Railway station building, built in the 1970s is a living example of Soviet architecture. Take a look at the façade, ornate with the work of renowned sculptor Rafayel Yeghoyan.